Anybody know where this guy is hoping to land next season? It's hard to tell based on these pictures. That blue and orange would look odd paired with Cleveland's maroon, gold, navy, and white.
This is actually brilliant, because these will be even more sought after if he doesn't end up with the Knicks. So, either way it was smart.
After submitting hundreds of e-mails and drunk phone calls to the basketball jones, I finally decided to up my game and make a video. I submitted a question about the NBA All-Defensive team that was first brought up on this site when Babcock, Casten, and I did a NFL picks podcast last season. I am proud to have sparked such enthusiastic discourse.
My question comes 12:24 into the episode below (although the whole episode is great, so watch all of it). It's nice to get Boner Salad some international exposure.
The Basketball Jones is hands down the best podcast out there, and everyone should be helping them out. You should email feedback@thescore.com (Canadian television network, and also international website that features great liveblogging and Jones videos) and let them know that you want to them to include more basketball jones.
We've got quick-hit picks this week. Here they are:
NEW ORLEANS -7 over Dallas
Green Bay +2 over PITTSBURGH
Miami +3 over TENNESSEE
NEW ENGLAND -7 over Buffalo
Arizona -12.5 over DETROIT
PHILLY -8 over San Francisco
JETS -4.5 over Atlanta
Chicago +11 over BALTIMORE (seems like a steep line to me. But I don't really recommend this. If anything throw Baltimore into a teaser)
KANSAS CITY -2 over Cleveland
Houston -12.5 over ST. LOUIS
SAN DIEGO -6.5 over Cincinnati
DENVER -14 over Oakland
SEATTLE -6.5 over Tampa Bay
MINNESOTA -9 over Carolina
NY Giants -3 over WASHINGTON
10 point teaser of the week: Baltimore -1 over Chicago, Denver -4 over Oakland, and San Diego +3.5 over Cincinnati
Lay it down.
A few tunes to get you through this frigid weekend:
Plaxico Burress was brought to the Giants to be the ultimate weapon against the Eagles undersized defensive backs. These wide receivers are talented, but they're young and they weren't supposed to have to shoulder the load yet. Hakeem Nicks is having balls bounce off his hands. Mario Manningham can't get his feet down twice on plays that would have been guaranteed touchdowns for Burress. Eli is smart and saavy and he knows where to go with the ball, but what else can he do when these guys can't even stay in bounds?
Bottom line: this game, this season, and certainly last season would have been different if this asshole didn't shoot himself in the leg.
I hate the Eagles, but hats off to them.
I can only hope that Steve Spagnuolo is fired in St. Louis (although I don't think it's likely) so we can get him back here next season. It doesn't even have to be him. Anybody! Bill Sheridan is a joke. This defensive line is an absolute joke right now. I don't know what it is, but I find it hard to believe that every single one of these guys has suddenly "lost it". Maybe it's scheme, maybe they aren't motivated to play for him. Whatever it is, it needs to change. Osi Umenyiora is good. I know he is. Two years ago, he sacked Donovan McNabb 6 times.
I can give Sheridan a pass on the secondary breakdowns. That whole secondary is patchwork. But, the lack of pressure on opposing quarterbacks is inexcusable.
This season of It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia has been amazing. The Gang Gives Frank An Intervention was probably the funniest episode of any tv show I have ever seen in my life. And, The D.E.N.N.I.S. System isn't far behind. If you need to kill time before the Giants kickoff tonight, and you haven't seen it yet, why don't you take in Dennis's fool proof plan for seducing women (note, you should probably hit play, then immediately hit pause, and let it load for a couple of minutes).
and, while we're at it, why not see how it turns out at the end:
Also, Jessica Simpson is now dating Billy Corgan. It's weird because even though I know this is hands down the most badass dude she's dated, it feels as if she's hit rock bottom because he's so old. Good for him though, she's way hotter than any of Tiger's mistresses. I guess there are some barriers that not even Tiger can break: chicks will always take rock stars over golfers. I think the world is a happier place that way.
Anyways, the picks:
INDIANAPOLIS -7 over Denver: I'll be shocked if Indy doesn't finish 16-0.
Cincinnati +6.5 over MINNESOTA: I don't want to be hopping on the "this is where Favre totally self destructs" bandwagon, but I can only go by what I see. I said in our pre-season podcast that even if Favre started well, it wouldn't last. It certainly lasted longer than I thought, but now it seems to be coming to an end. 19 yards last week: Adrian Peterson is not healthy.
TAMPA BAY +3 over NY Jets: I'm going with Josh Freeman over Kellen Clemens because he's at home and he threw five picks last week, which means he's going to be extra careful with the ball this week.
KANSAS CITY PK over Buffalo: The Chiefs were embarrassed by a division rival last week. I like them to bounce back a home here.
GREEN BAY -3.5 over Chicago: Two teams on totally opposite paths here. Despite all the fuss over Jay Cutler this off-season, it will be very apparent that he is the inferior quarterback in this matchup.
NEW ORLEANS -10 over Atlanta: The Saints have had some close calls lately, but this Falcons team is done.
Detroit +13.5 over BALTIMORE: Two touchdowns seems a little steep to me. These Lions play hard, and the Ravens are not so intimidating this year.
Miami +2.5 over JACKSONVILLE: Miami has the right kind of swagger. Jacksonville's win over Houston last week only came with Schaub missing time. They are the ultimate "blah" team.
NEW ENGLAND -13 over Carolina: As long as Randy Moss is on time.
HOUSTON -6.5 over Seattle: This Texans team is so much better than their record. I have a feeling they are going to be like the Cardinals. We heard for years and years about how the Cardinals were going to be a surprise team. They'd show flashes, but wouldn't be able to put it together. Then, last season, after we'd all written them off, they finally prove us right. Not this year for the Texans, but they're getting there.
TENNESSEE -13 over St. Louis: Vince Young is questionable, but I don't really know if it even matters. Yeah, he's been great. But it isn't just him. This is a talented team, and they will all benefit from this momentum.
OAKLAND +1 over Washington: Wow, is this tough. The Raiders have to be taken seriously when they play at home. But, the Skins have been playing way over their heads. Still on the West Coast, I'll go with the West Coast team.
San Diego +3 over DALLAS: It will feel strange to be this happy about the Chargers winning.......
NY GIANTS -1 over Philadelphia: The stakes don't get much higher here. I can't talk about it.
Arizona -3.5 over SAN FRANCISCO: The Cardinals are better than the Saints, and they just spanked the Vikings. Assuming they won't have to play a postseason game outdoors in the cold, don't be surprised to see this team in the Super Bowl.
In order for the Giants to redeem this season and reignite the high hopes we all held when the season began, they needed to win two in a row at the start of December. We're halfway there, and I couldn't be happier. It wasn't perfect, but I finally saw the spirit in this team I'd been missing for the past 6 weeks.
Next week won't get any easier, as the Eagles dominated the first meeting and crushed Atlanta today. But, Tony Romo played incredibly well this afternoon (yep, that's the first time I've said something like that). It's hard to imagine a quarterback playing better, and the Giants were able to withstand it. This will be the best I've slept on a Sunday in a long time......
After posting a 75% record last season, we see that I clearly can't pick games worth dick this year. I'm not even going to try this week. The Giants Thanksgiving Day humiliation makes it even less appealing. Have I thought about the NFL all week? No. The Celtics are 9 minutes away from sweeping their roadtrip, Kendrick Perkins is fulfilling his destiny to become the second coming of Robert Parish, and Kevin Garnett isn't looking like a gimp. So, I've been enjoying myself in other ways.....
It's been nice, pretending that football is over and I only have the NBA to worry about, but it's not real. But all I've really been doing is distracting myself from the one game season that awaits on Sunday. Call me crazy, but I still wouldn't be surprised to see the Giants in the NFC championship game if they can win this weekend. Yes, I know the Saints and the Vikings play in the NFC. But, if they can't win this weekend, Big Blue won't even see the postseason. The stakes are that high. I can't think about it. I just need to wait for it, and then experience it. Thank god for Florida Alabama tomorrow. Without it, this matchup with Dallas would consume me.
I've been hooked on Barstool Sports NY ever since it was launched. No site captures the emotions I feel pre and post Giants game more accurately, win or lose. Today, Scott gives us this masterpiece, which sums up exactly how I feel:
"I feel like Hillary Clinton right now. Because no matter how many different vaginas the Giants slide a cigar into, I’m standing by them no matter what. Through thick and thin. Good times and bad. So they can fuck all the fat interns they want, bottom line is that in the NFL, the best teams in the beginning of December are rarely the teams still standing at the end of January. And thats about all I have to hold onto at this point. And because even with Bradshaw questionable, the entire offensive line banged up, the season-long disappearance of Osi and Tuck, Eli’s foot problems, whothefuckknowswhat with Jacobs, the secondary’s weekly toasting, Pierce’s season-ending injury, and Bill Sheridan’s last few weeks as an employee of the New York Giants, there is not a bizarro world fucked up enough where I would ever pick the Cowboys over the Giants. Because I hate the fucking Cowboys and I never want to see that redneck dickhead Jerry Jones win anything."
Amen. You'd be hardpressed to find a scripture more powerful than that anywhere throughout recorded history. For the next three days, this is my rallying cry.
Forcing 25 turnovers, holding the Raps to 17 in the third, KG 6-6 from the floor, Perk 8-8 from the floor, under 30 minutes for KG, 35 minutes for Pierce, 34 minutes for Ray, all 5 starters in double figures...
Oh yeah, and this, the exact moment that the swagger returned:
DETROIT +11 over Green Bay: What type of a person would I be if I picked any differently? I am certainly not advising you to lay down any money here. But, I think it's safe to say that all Americans outside of Wisconsin will be rooting for the Lions tomorrow.
Oakland +13.5 over DALLAS: Dallas hasn't had much time to regroup after their win that felt like a loss over Washington on Sunday, and Oakland is probably feeling pretty good about themselves after knocking off Cincinnati. Now, Oakland is much worse away from the black hole, but I just don't think the Cowboys are capable of blowing anybody out. I like Tony Romo to struggle against a stout secondary. The Cowboys win, but not by two touchdowns.
NY Giants -7 over DENVER: Denver is regressing to the mean as we speak. This is not a playoff team. They were playing over their heads for a long time. On the other hand, I think the Giants are back where they should be. I actually think, special teams aside, that they played a great game against San Diego up until the final minute, when they clearly felt as if they already had the outcome in hand. Eli Manning returned to his early season form on Sunday against Atlanta, and it wasn't just a matter of the Falcons secondary being woeful. For the most part, they had good positioning on the Giants receivers. Eli was fitting the ball into small windows where only his receivers could get it. Manningham, Nicks, Boss, and Steve Smith are growing more confident every week. I know this is a night game in Denver, and I might be letting my fandom get the best of me, but I really don't think so. The G-Men are back.
Indianapolis -3.5 over HOUSTON: Indy might lose a game this season, and my pick will be wrong that week. I won't pick against them.
CINCINNATI -14 over Cleveland: I don't expect the Bengals to take Sunday's loss lightly. They've done more than enough to earn our respect up until this point, but I think this team feels the pressure of doubters every week. As for the Browns, Brady Quinn is certainly looking like the future. But, he's more of a next year or the year after that future. Certainly not a this season future. They may not win another game this season, but hopefully his improvement can be something that they can hang their hats on in the offseason.
MINNESOTA -11 over Chicago: The Vikings very well could be the NFL's best team. There's really no way to definitively separate the teams at the top, but this team can just get you in every way possible. They are very scary.
Washington +9 over PHILADELPHIA: The Redskins have been tougher lately. They are really showing some resolve. I'm not sure if they are trying to play for Jim Zorn, or if they are simply just starting to gel. The performances of Ladell Betts and Rock Cartwright over the past two weeks certainly don't reflect very well on Clinton Portis. But, it does mean that maybe he doesn't need to be the workhorse next season if Betts is able to recover from this knee injury. Splitting up the carries between the three next year could be a much more effective approach, as it would keep Portis more fresh. Even with Betts out and Portis in question, I like the Skins to keep it close. They won't win, though.
Miami -3 over BUFFALO: For the first time in my life, I can't get enough of watching the Miami Dolphins. Can we please get some more love for Ricky Williams? People can say what they want about his off the field actions, but we here at roomofzen have never held it against him. I know nothing about what it is like to be a major celebrity who has been diagnosed with clinical depression and social anxiety disorder. I would imagine it's difficult. I also believe that people are allowed to think that their job sucks. On the field, this guy is everything that you could ever want in a player. He is the ultimate workhorse. I don't think I've ever seen a guy more overworked than he was in Miami in his first go-round and he never seemed to wear down. Because the Dolphins run so much, people are worried that Ricky won't be able to take on the primary back responsibilities on his own. Well, he's done it before. And, he seems healthier and happier now than he ever was then. I think he'll be fine.
TENNESSEE -2 over Arizona: Are people really that surprised that Vince Young is playing well? I mean, I didn't think he was a sure thing to play well this season, but by no means had I written him off completely. People forget that he played in the pro bowl his rookie year. The ability has always been there. He just had to fix his head. If you want to see an example of a guy doing that, see above (Ricky Williams) or see the 36 year old quarterback who led the titans to the playoffs last season in Young's absence.
ST. LOUIS +3 over Seattle: Call me crazy. Kyle Boller is under center, and Steven Jackson will be limited with a sprained lower back. But I just have a feeling. That Seattle defense has not been great lately.
ATLANTA -12 over Tampa Bay: The Falcons impressed me on Sunday. Curtis Snelling is the real deal. I think Josh Freeman is too, but it's going to take a while.
NY JETS -3 over Carolina: I don't care about this game.
SAN FRANCISCO -3 Jacksonville: The Jags don't travel well, which is not something I'd expect from a team who never has any fans at its games. The last time they went West, Seattle hung 41 on them.
SAN DIEGO -13.5 over Kansas City: Whatever man. I guess San Diego doesn't suck at football the way they suck at life. The Chiefs aren't going to win three in a row.
BALTIMORE -2.5 over Pittsburgh: I didnt watch Pittsburgh on Sunday, so it was really weird to turn on ESPN and have them say "Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch is out for the season with a broken wrist" while they showed him taking snaps. They didn't mention anything about him being in because of roethlisberger's concussion. I felt like I was in a time warp. Was it 2003? 2005? What the hell was going on. I didn't even know Charlie Batch was still in the league.
New England +3 over NEW ORLEANS: The Patriots are really good. I feel extremely confident about this one.
The story says that KG was at a commercial shoot at Conseco Fieldhouse this summer, and when he was asked by a Pacers assistant on his way out to meet the Pacers rookies Tyler Hansborough and AJ Price he responded by saying "Fuck your rookies!" and walking out.
I love this story. Unless by "meet" this assistant coach met "have sex with their wives", I'm not exactly sure what he was expecting. People can hate KG all they want, but I stick to my guns that he hasn't changed a bit. He's always been this way, and he was appreciated for it when he was in Minnesota. The only thing that's changed is the quality of his teammates and the size of the market he plays in. People can say what they want, they wish they had guys like this on their team.
Cs at Magic tonight. Fuck their rookies too....and their veterans....and their ron jeremy look alike coach.
And, as if you needed more, don't forget that the world's greatest band will be playing at the Middle East on Saturday night (I know I've posted the Gnashing several times lately...I guess sometimes a song does that to you):
Baroness will be coming back around again this Saturday (11/21) at the Middle East in Cambridge. People get sick of us plugging no band but this one, but I am unphased. In a perfect world, this would be the highest grossing tour in history. I can honestly say that there isn't a show I can think of that I would see over them. Obviously, you should be there.
This Walmart commercial is, hands down, one of the funniest I've seen in a while:
They have good editors, because this extended version feels extremely forced and unfunny:
Somehow seeing that extended version makes me appreciate the shorter one less. The creative vision here was clearly a failure in terms of comedy. But somehow, through editing, they seemed to have fallen ass backwards into something funny. What more can you expect from a company that only sells censored CDs?
Watching Philip Rivers, LaDainian Tomlinson, and Shawne Merriman triumph over the Giants in the meadowlands in the final minute on Sunday felt like being neutered. I haven't been able to watch or talk about football since it happened. Hopefully, I'll be able to bring myself back this weekend. And, more importantly, hopefully the Giants will pull themselves back together. There couldn't be a more aptly timed bye.
NY JETS -7 over Jacksonville: You can officially bury whichever team loses here. I'm assuming (as I'm hoping the Giants will do this week) that the Jets were able to find their early season form over their bye week. I like them at home in this one.
Denver -3.5 over WASHINGTON: Apparently that Steelers victory made quite an impression on Vegas. Only 3.5? That wouldn't be enough even if Clinton Portis were playing.....which he's not.
PITTSBURGH -7 over Cincinnati: There is no way the Bengals beat Pittsburgh twice this year.
TENNESSEE -7 Buffalo: I said in my week 1 picks that I really thought this Tennessee team was good, especially on defense. I still feel that, personnel wise, they are very talented. Now that they've got some positive momentum, I like them to win their third straight this weekend at home. Perhaps the biggest nonstory in this one is that we're still not sure whether or not TO will play due to his injured hip.
MINNESOTA -17 over Detroit: This line is really steep, and I'd love to take the Lions. BUT, how can I go against the Vikings coming off of a bye week? I can't. But, I really wouldn't feel good laying it down on these 17 points. I'm looking forward to Detroit on Thanksgiving.
NEW ORLEANS -13.5 over St. Louis: The Saints have shown that they can spot good teams double digit points and come back to win. They won't get behind against St. Louis, which means we're looking at complete destruction.
Atlanta -1.5 over CAROLINA: Pass.
Tampa Bay +10 over MIAMI: What a great surprise it was to see the creamsicle uniforms resurfacing. I love those uniforms. I think the pirate on the helmet is badass, and the colors are great. I also like what we saw from Josh Freeman, and I think he and Chad Henne will have a close matchup this weekend.
OAKLAND -2 over Kansas City: The Chiefs have played teams tough on a more consistent basis. But, all logic goes out the window when the Raiders are at home, where they've given San Diego a run for their money and have also beaten the Eagles.
ARIZONA -8.5 Seattle: I really thought that this Seattle team was going to be, at least, as good as the Cards. But, clearly, I misread that one (keep in mind, I also said "I like how this Browns team is built" in week 1).
Philadelphia +1.5 over SAN DIEGO: This is how much I hate the Chargers. The Eagles are coming off a tough loss. They got spanked last time they went out West. So, I think they'll be especially motivated. On top of that, everyone hates Philip Rivers, and I don't think the Eagles are immune to that. They won't let this happen.
DALLAS -3 over Green Bay: Dallas seems to be really hitting their stride. They should be pretty tough to beat from here on out, setting us up perfectly for another epic late season choke.
New England +3 over Indy: The Colts have to lose at some point, and this is the opponent best armed to take them down. Bill Belichick knows what to do.
Baltimore -11 over CLEVELAND: I'll be surprised if there isn't a riot in the stands at the end of this one.
George Plimpton joined the 1963 Detroit Lions in training camp at age 36. This was after his failure to catch on with the New York Giants, Washington Redskins and New York Titans (for some reason that sounds better than Tennessee Titans). You have to admire his persistence. Though he wanted to be treated exactly like any player, his "teammates" figured out pretty quickly that he was a reporter in disguise. His only appearance (an inter squad scrimmage) was disastrous, as he lost 30+ yards in his one series as the team's quarterback.
It is a well-written book in which the Phillips Exeter, Harvard and Kings College (Cambridge) educated Plimpton does not change anything about his style or speech. It was even difficult for him to swear. Of course the Lions picked up on this and had a ton of fun at his expense. The key however, was that Plimpton had almost unlimited access to both players and coaches. And unlike the disappointing Patriot Reign (I feel strongly about this) Paper Lion delivers. Some points before you head off to get the book:
- This was before television transformed football into big time, year round business. Some guys still had jobs in the off-season.
- Weight lifting and conditioning were still in their early stages.
- Paper Lion is a certain generation's The Jordan Rules. In both cases, even people who don't read a ton, love them.
- Night Train Lane. Just a fascinating guy. One of the best corners ever, somewhat enigmatic and holder of a freaking awesome nickname. Furthermore, the "Coach is that a 2 door or a 4 door?" anecdote is pure gold.
- 1963 was the season that Alex Karras was suspended for gambling. He was an excellent defensive lineman and a character as well. Plimpton did a follow up chapter where he outlined a visit with Karras. Karras talked about past lives (worked for Hitler amongst others) and other off the wall observations. Then in the quasi sequel - Mad Ducks and Bears - Karras put any quirky modern athlete to shame. His foray into the sex toy business was legendary. Having said that you might know him better as "that guy from Webster".
- Plimpton had an interesting life to say the least. In addition to his education he drove a tank in World War II and was a prolific writer. His Sidd Finch article would be a career in and of itself for a lot of writers. And on top of all that Plimpton was friends with Robert Kennedy from their time at Harvard. He, along with another man, tackled Sirhan Sirhan to the ground after Kennedy's assassination. What didn't Plimpton do?
"only thing worse than watching that fucking trash talking cocky pussy who’s never won an important game in his life and the roided out woman beating has-been freakshow celebrate on our field is watching the season literally go down the tubes. Hey congratulations on your first sack in 2 years asshole. Fuck the Chargers."
I'm taking the week off as Bad Newz Kennels is in the midst of a New York Giants style slide (sorry Nick) right now. And it coincides exactly with me posting about the league. So call this my bye week. However, I will throw something more substantial up next week - win, lose or tie.
For my first order of business, as I did last year, I'd like to make a preemptive strike against all of those fans, coaches, players, analysts, and politicians who are gearing up for their annual bashing of the BCS, which is set to begin soon. It's gotten to the point now where we are all programmed to believe that the BCS system is somehow inherently unfair and unjust. We're supposed to blindly agree that it doesn't work the same way we're supposed to agree that kids shouldn't smoke cigarettes and fast food is unhealthy. Politicians are even speaking out and taking action against this system not because they truly feel it an abomination, but rather because there is seemingly no other matter on which the American people seem more passionately unified.
My biggest fear in all of this is not that the BCS might be changed. The system is certainly imperfect, and the methods for which a national champion are chosen could no doubt be improved. Rather, I worry that as the naysayers are swept up in all of the anti-BCS hysteria, they lose sight of the fact that this system is an improvement over what was in place before. And, most of the time, the system gets it right.
Obviously, the biggest issue that people have with the BCS is that teams are not given the chance to settle things on the field. Teams can make it through an entire season unscathed, and still be denied the chance to compete for the national championship. It doesn't feel right. However, the only way to fix this trouble would be to implement a playoff system, which is something we've never had.
Many people act as if the BCS was implemented in place of a previously existing playoff tournament. Not the case. In fact, before the BCS, there was no national championship game, and the potential for trouble was far greater. John Flinn, loyal Michigan Wolverine fan and roomofzen follower, still tenses up when he discusses the 1997 season, the final season before the BCS. His Michigan Wolverines were 11-0, and had one of the most dynamic players in the history of college football (Charles Woodson). John swears up and down (and it's hard to argue with him) that the Wolverines were the best team in college football. By taking care of business against PAC-10 champion Washington State, he argues, they should have earned their sole place as national champions. Instead, they (the AP poll champs) had to share their championship with the Coaches Poll champion, Nebraska.
Both Michigan and Nebraska finished their seasons undefeated, and were clearly the two best teams in college football. There is no question that they should have been playing each other for the national championship. However, because the old system offered no such game, and they were instead each forced to play one loss teams in their Bowl Games. This was our old system, and we survived with it for a long time. I don't see how you can think we haven't made progress in the past 10-12 years.
Look, if it could work, I'm all in favor of a playoff system. College football is a spectator sport, and this would add more excitement and draw in more fans. That's why it would be great. More drama, more tailgating, more rowdy screaming fans, and more cheerleaders. It would scratch the fans right where they itch, and sports are all about the fans. That's the most persuasive argument for a playoff system. However, it's not the one I normally hear. Most people who argue in favor of a playoff system because they think it would do a better job than the BCS currently does of finding us college football's two best teams. On this, I disagree.
Last year, T wrote about a book he had read called The Drunkard's Walk by Leonard Mlodinow. The book talkes about randomness in the world, and deals mostly with statistics. My wife really enjoys studying statistics and also is a college football fan. She posed this question to me today when discussing the BCS vs. playoff system issue (and she wants me to be clear that she wasn't giving an opinion here): Who deserves to be in the championship game more: the team who wins 1 actual game or the team who would win more often over the course of hundreds of games?. She then referenced this passage from The Drunkard's Walk (note, he is discussing baseball and a 7 game series, but the passage is still relevant):
"....you will discover that in a 7 game series, there is a sizeable chance that the inferior team will be crowned champion. For instance, if one team is good enough to warrant beating another in 55% of it's games, the inferior team will nevertheless win a 7 game series about 4 times out of 10. And, if the superior team could be expected to beat its opponent on average 2 out of ever 3 times they meet, the inferior team will still win a 7 game series about once every 5 matches. There is really no way for sports leagues to change this. In the lopsided 2/3 probability case, for example, you'd have to play a series consisting of at minumum the best of 23 games to determine the winner with what is called statistical significance, meaning the weaker team would be crowned champion 5 percent or less of the time. And in the case of one team's having only a 55-45 edge, the shortest statistically significant "world series" would be the best of 269 games, a tedious endeavor indeed!" (pages 70-71)
What this tells us is that a playoff tournament would probably be less effective at giving us the two best teams in the nation at season's end than a system that factors in season-long trends, the vote of people who know the game well, and algorithms that crunch statistics that go beyond simply wins and losses. Take our current season. There are two clear classes of undefeated. We have the juggernauts: Texas, Florida, and Alabama. If all goes according to plan, two of these three will meet in the national championship. When this happens, the fans of the other undefeated teams (potentially Iowa, TCU, Boise State, and Cincinnati) will no doubt scream injustice, particularly mid-major fans. Well, sure, there is no doubt that in a one-game playoff situation Iowa, TCU, Boise, State, or Cincinnati COULD upset Florida, Texas, or Alabama. Anything can happen in one game. But, would that really mean that they are better than Florida, Texas, or Alabama? No. Wouldn't you know that you weren't watching the two best teams if Iowa or Cincinnati were in the game? Yes, you would. If all you're really concerned about is finding the two best teams, this system is probably more accurate than a playoff would be.
Perhaps I have veered all over the map here, so I'll try to sum up what I'm trying to say to the BCS bashers. First, you should be glad that we have a national championship game. It hasn't always been so. Next, a playoff system would no doubt be amazing, because it would add a great deal of excitement and upset potential. But, there is evidence that what we have in place might actually be more effective at finding the two best teams. Also, given the stadium and media contracts involved, I wonder if the logistics are as easy to overcome as people think (for the record, I'm still in favor of a playoff, because this is a spectator sport, and who ends up winning at the end has no real global implications one way or the other).
And, lastly, college football is awesome, and you shouldn't let all this negativity ruin it for you.
Look, I understand why the Cs are hesitant to overpay here. They have the right to match any offers after the season, and doing so is a great way to make sure they're not dishing out more than what the market commands (sucks to be restricted). But, there is something that really doesn't feel right about the way this whole thing has been handled. The negativity that came out over the summer did not sit well with me. This guy needs to be a Celtic for life, and even though I know they wouldn't let him go in the offseason, I'd feel great about getting it done now.
Take a look at Rondo's line from Friday night against the Bulls: 1-2 from the field with 2 points, 8 rebounds, 16 assists, and only 2 turnovers. There could not be a more perfect line from the point guard of this team. He was totally in control of the game, forcing nothing, letting things come to him, not concerned with how many shots he gets, and distributing the ball to his scorers. On top of that, he is one of the best guards in the league when it comes to rebounding and defense. Mike Gorman said on Friday night that the Cs have been working hard to increase the number of deflections that they get on defense. They have been tracking the stat in practice and in games. Rondo was the first guy I thought of, because he is so good at getting into the passing lanes and disrupting opponents' flow.
I won't say he's the best point guard in the league. But, I will say that I NEVER look at other ones and think "god, I wish we could have him instead of Rondo." The thought has never crossed my mind. At least not in the past two years.
That being said, am I excited to see Chris Paul tonight?....
I'm a sucker for articles like this one from Green Street that describe what great chemistry the Celtics have. I sent it around to a bunch of people, and we all had the same reaction: great article, but why the hell is Rasheed Wallace a Chiefs fan? I wouldn't expect that. We all agreed that maybe Sheed was from the Kansas City area. I left it alone for a few weeks.
"Coming off the bench with 4:06 remaining in the first quarter of the Celtics' too-easy, 92-59 victory against the Charlotte Bobcats in last night's Garden opener, Wallace got the place rocking just 40 seconds later when he pumped in a 3-pointer from 25 feet out. Ninety seconds later, he did it again. And the place rocked again. He had three treys and nine points in all. Could the new guy feel the love? 'I didn't feel it, I heard it,' he said as he buttoned up his stylish black-and-white Philadelphia Phillies warmup jacket, all while glancing at the flat screen to check out his hometown nine's Game 1 victory in the World Series. [...] 'Guys were talking about it on the plane (ride home from Cleveland). They said, ‘The fans here ... they're going to be crazy.' And you felt that as soon as they said, ‘And now, your starting lineup for your Boston Celtics.' Wallace then did a cool imitation of a roaring crowd. It's simple as this: He fits in. He has played just two games with the Celtics, one at home, yet somehow it seems as if he's been around for a long time, an old soldier of the parquet."
Now...obviously chemistry piece is great and Sheed is such a good fit here....but, more importantly...Sheed a Chiefs fan? This doesn't add up.
1. He is from Philadelphia, and this article suggests that he supports his hometown teams. So, you'd think he'd be an Eagles fan.
2. Even if he didn't like the Eagles (no argument from me), there are a clear pool of favorites from which fans generally draw. It includes the Cowboys, Raiders,and Packers. The Chiefs are not one of these teams. I find it hard to believe he would have arrived on this conclusion by himself.
3. Sometimes there are historical trends in certain areas that explain why fans choose against their home teams. Many people in New York are Dodgers or SF Giants fans. I am one of many Giants fans living in Massachusetts because my father grew up rooting for the Giants. But, I cannot for the life of me think of any reason why someone growing up in Philly would find themselves rooting for the Chiefs.
This all had me stumped on Thursday. I chewed on this stuff all day, and finally came up with this answer, which seems the most logical. But, unless I actually get the chance to sit Sheed down and talk to him, I won't be satisfied.
My explanation: Ok, the original Green Street article scene begins with Kendrick Perkins declaring the greatness of the Cowboys to the Celtics lockerroom. Sheed then interjects as he cheers for his alleged "favorite team", the Kansas City Chiefs. He gloated as Perk walked off into the trainers room when the Chiefs scored to sent the game into overtime.
I'm a Giants fan, and I would do the same thing if I were watching that game with a Cowboys fan. Everyone hates the Cowboys, particularly NFC East fans. I wouldn't be surprised if Sheed were an Eagles fan. At the very least, I suspect that growing up around so many Eagles fans taught him to hate Dallas. I believe that Sheed's gloating was nothing more than anti-cowboy sentiment. The writer, in this case, chose to assume him a Chiefs fan, because it paints the perfect picture of a lockerroom scene: two big men taking in a matchup beween their favorite teams.
Unless I hear otherwise, this issue has been put to rest in my mind.
Having free NBA League Pass this week has been great, and I thought I would end with some quick thoughts I have from flipping around the League Pass channels this week:
- One nice thing about League Pass is that you see teams you wouldn't see otherwise. I haven't watched the Kings play anyone but the Celtics in years. I caught parts of all their games this week, as they played three teams I wanted to see (Thunder, Hornets, and Spurs). The Kings aren't good. But, they are young, and they aren't boring. In particular, I was impressed with Jason Thompson, who appears to be a strong rebounder and a pretty solid all-around piece.
- If I were a Rockets fan, I would be absolutely loving this team. They are uptempo, and they have all hustle guys and overachievers. Trevor Ariza showed me more this week than Tracy McGrady ever has in terms of his prowess as a complete player. The Rockets, even without T-MAC and Yao, will be a tough out for everyone, and will give their fans something to be excited about all season.
- I am not afraid of the Cavaliers. That game with the Bobcats on Saturday night was much closer than the score indicates. I am hoping, with every fiber of my being, that Stephen Jackson and Ronny Turiaf come over and Big Z is run out of town. Big Z has always created matchup problems for the Celtics because of his shooting range. He spaces out the defense. If he is gone, this is going to be the most predictable and easy-to-plan-for offense in the NBA. LeBron could score 38 every night and it won't matter. On top of that, it will leave a greater burden on the old, achy, flabby back of Shaq.
Random Recommendation: Grocery store pizza. I'm not talking about grabbing something from the frozen food section. Rather I'm talking about hitting up the made to order section of a Shaws, Big Y, etc. The pizzas are always reasonably priced, tastier than you may think and frequently come in a sweet party size. Give it a shot.
Article You Should Read: Things aren't going well for old friend Delonte West. Hopefully he get's the help he needs and returns to playing ball. Let's just flash back to happier days for a moment. Also Danny Ainge took a lot of heat for his youth movement back in 2007 that was allegedly lacking in talent. Well Big Al is legit (and we knew this), there was a ton of talk about how much the Cavs needed Delonte on opening night, Perk is one of the best defensive centers in the league, Rajon Rondo is stellar, and Gerald Green...never mind. So it hasn't been perfect. Passing on Brandon Roy comes to mind. But it's been great to watch. And the Pau Gasol deal was way more of an egregious farce than the KG trade. Game of the Week: I'm just not overly impressed with Giants/Eagles right now, or the NFC East for that matter. I could see the division rounding into form, but we'll see. Meanwhile, the AFC east could be an under the radar solid division. Long story short I'm going with Jets/Dolphins. For the record I still enjoy Bill Parcells and wish he was guiding a NFC team. Phrase I Can't Pull Off: "Git-r-done." And I'm okay with that.
Some NBA Thoughts:
1.I hope the C's don't devolve into a "Live by the 3, Die by the 3" type of team.
2. I turned on the Spurs/Bulls game and thought, "I didn't realize San Antonio still had Bruce Bowen. Of course I immediately realized it was Richard Jefferson. Not sure what to make of this except the Spurs are happy with the current situation. Also, throw me in the DeJuan Blair fan club. He might give the Spurs what some people thought Jackie Butler would a few seasons back.
3. Hypothetically let's just say the wheels come off the Rasheed Wallace in Boston experience. And let's say it happens in the spring while a recently activated Leon Powe gets buckets in Boston. That may be the point Tommy Heinsohn loses his mind, repeatedly shouts "I love Leon" and pours a scotch before they cut his mic.
MLB Thoughts:
1. I thought it was surreal to see Pedro pitch against Manny. And then Pedro went to the House that tons of money built. It was fascinating. Especially when Pedro pulled off the wily veteran role in the early innings.
2. In other news, I definitely caught more C's/Bobcats than Game 1 of the World Series. That's odd.
3. I hate the music Fox is using.
Closing Thought: In college we played football with a guy who wore gloves in the weight room. He took a fair amount of abuse for that. But he continued to wear them. I bring this up because I respect him more than the guy who shows up in them, gets some heat and discards the gloves. That's sort of how I felt about Brett Favre when I saw his Sears commercial. I'm still tired of the Wrangler ads, how much fun he's having out there, his bitterness towards an organization that he toyed with for a few years, the free pass he got on that abysmal pick he threw against the Giants that ultimately cost the Pats Super Bowl #4, how much of a factor his wife is in the news, and the general Favre circus. But I get a kick out of this:
I think that the Bronco's are going to hit a wall, and this very well could be the week, BUT you have to like how this offense has been playing especially now that Marshall is on board and contributing and CorrellBuckhalter is back of the IR to spell Moreno. I like the Bronco's and their whack-ass uniforms.
Indy -13 vs San Francisco
Was last week a coming out party for Vernon Davis and Alex Smith? I'd have to say its more of an anomaly. Rumor has it that Singletary has a bunch of lewd photographs on his phone to use as motivational tools, should the need arise, but even still Indy rolls at home.
Houston - 3.5 @ Buffalo
Its hard to believe that the Bills are really only two special teams plays away from being 5-2 and alone atop the AFC East, and Houston has shown some real inconsistent streaks this season. Nothing so far this year has brought me more joy than watching TO languish in despair with 1 touchdown, 15 catches, and 5 drops. Unfortunately this makes his inevitable jump to color commentator all the more imminent...
Chicago-14 vs. Cleveland
Eric Mangini should really think about seducing, groping, or molesting an intern to stir things up in Cleveland...This is the least interesting team in the world. The world. PS, somebody tell Matt Forte to show up this season please, he's totally under performing his draft position in both of my fantasy leagues.
Miami + 3.5 @ New York Jets
Didn't this game just happen? Whats going on here? Well anyway, I think that the tables have turned for Sanchez, Miami's got their ground game cruising and I think Henne is going to have a strong game here. Hot Dog to Interception ratio for the Dirty Sanchise 2:4.
Very phallic club placement...this aint his first rodeo!
Saint Louis PK @ Detroit Lions
If you're betting on this game, you have a gambling problem. If you already know this, and you're ok with it or simply refuse to better yourself and move your life in a positive direction take the Rams.
Cowboys- 10 Vs Seattle
What if you could have a swimming pool filled with any cereal you liked what would it be? You really should be thinking of these things.
Giants-1 @ Philly
I like both of these teams, and if Philly can find the same holes in the secondary that New Orleans did this one will be an absolute shootout. But, I think the Giants know this and will try to play ball control with the freak of nature known as Brandon Jacobs carrying 25+ times. Desean Jackson is 21 years old.
Oakland +17 @ San Diego
I hate the Chargers so much that I just have to take this line! Also, tell me I'm not the only one who sees a future Sean Salisbury in Phillip Rivers...well at least you can acknowledge that hes a Douche.
Tennessee -3 vs Jacksonville
Either this is the weak or Tennessee will really fall off the deep end. I cannot for the life of me figure out whats going on with this team, it seems like total chaos and lack of giving a shit. Steve Phillips says, "Get yourself a slump buster".
Mr and Mrs. Steve Phillips Ladies and Gentlemen!
Before I go on, I have to throw these out there as renaming suggestions for ESPN:
ESPN: Exposing Salisbury's Penis Network
ESPN: Extramarital Steve Phillips Network
ESPN: Especially Sleazy Persons Network
Green Bay Packers - 3 Vs Minnesota
I'm beginning to hate Favre less, but I think that the Packers have something to prove here.
Arizona - 10.5 vs. Carolina
Total chaos in Carolina...almost as strange as Tennessee. Maybe it has something to do with the South? I can't figure it out.
New Orleans - 10.5 vs Atlanta
The Saints are the team to beat right now and I don't see the Falcons slowing them down enough to keep it close.
Not that I want to bump this post down the blog. However, The Basketball Jones podcast is back. This is a truly awesome development. Bonus points because our own Nick L is referenced in the inaugural show of the season and makes a comment on the previously linked TBJ post. Between watching the C's last night and listening to the Jones this afternoon I was so fired up that I snapped on a co-worker who derisively said, "They don't play defense in the NBA." Foolishness. As a side note, is it just me or is Nick L. one of the biggest Wayne's World fans out there? Just something I was thinking about.
Time for the Celtics/Bobcats, which hearkens back to the good old days of an intense, inexplicable rivalry between a lowly Tampa Bay Devil Rays squad and the superior Red Sox. Awesome.
The 2006 LaDanian Tomlinson Top Performing Team of the Week: Favre's Old Balls (136.42 points) took the week with 7 of 9 players earning double digit points and DeSean Jackson putting forth a monster effort.
The 2009 JaMarcus Russell/Derek Anderson Low Performing Team of the Week: Pitino Spamortion registered slightly more than 55 points. Strangely it was more about his guys under performing than anything else. Other than starting the Bears D instead of the Dolphins D, a move that cost him 16 points and given the match ups made a ton of sense, there's not much he could have done.
The Clutch Pick Up of the Week: It's all about the D. Buffalo's D gave Favre's Old Balls 14 points, narrowly edging the 13 Cincinnati put up for Move it up 5.
Owner of the Best Overall Player: Pitino Spamortion's Adrian Peterson threw up 18 points to hold down the top spot. It should be noted that Matt Schaub of Stan Mikita's Donuts had a similar week. In the process he moved up to #2 in the rankings and took the overall points lead. Can anyone knock Peterson out of that top spot?
Owner of the Worst Overall Player: Another back to back winner - LenDale White. And I only put him here again because he got the start in his bye week with a ranking of 1464. On the plus side he couldn't lose points in his bye week. I should note that I have a dangerous number of low ranked guys. They're on the bench, but it might be time to drop them regardless.
Call Out of the Week: This week brought up a question I never thought I'd ask - Is it better to start a player in his bye week or a player who recently had surgery and will not be on the field for several weeks? I tend to think the answer is neither and you should find someone else. But for whatever reason the latter continues to work for Stan Mikita's Donuts. Meanwhile, OBI WAN CANOLI and Rogue Trader decided to go 7 vs. 7 in week 7. Maybe it is better to have a blank roster spot instead of throwing Derek Andersen out there. Still I think it's bad for the competitive balance of the league. Of course writing a round up of a fantasy sports league is a sign that I may be taking this whole thing too seriously. So what do I know?
The 2007 Derek Anderson He's Ranked What? Award: He was frequently drafted somewhere around the 121st pick right after Laurence Maroney and Tim Hightower and well behind Beanie Wells, yet has risen to the 18th in the rankings. That's right Ricky Freaking Williams. And let the record show I never faulted Williams for walking away from an organization that seemed determined throughout the 2003 and 2004 seasons to prevent him from ever walking after his 40th birthday. Throw in his Texas carries and there's no way Williams is still around if he doesn't take some time off.
Matchup to Watch in Week 7: Once again That's a Tasty Burger gets the nod, sharing the spotlight with Rogue Trader this time around. They're tied at 5-2, battling for control of the league and as always they hate each other.
If the Season Ended Today...: Awkward Silences, That's a Tasty Burger, Rogue Trader and Bad Newz Kennels would make the playoffs. When it's all said and done I think Favre's Old Balls and Move it up 5 will bump those last 2.
I'm starting a "What ever happened to..." series here at ROOMOFZEN that delves into fictional characters from movies, television and video games and figures out what the hell they're up to now. Hopefully it's more successful than the fantasy football league updates that caused Bad Newz Kennels to plummet from a previously strong position. First up - Butch Coolidge.
Last time we checked Butch was driving Zed's chopper, with the Coolidge family watch in his possession, to pick up his girlfriend Fabienne. Since there never was a Pulp Fiction II, which is a good thing, I'm left to my own devices on this one. Here goes.
The Assumed Ending: Butch was financially set. He used Marsellus Wallace's bribe to bet on himself and realistically struck it rich in the process. On top of that he definitely seemed like a fighter approaching the end of the line. Provided he recognized it was time to hang up the gloves and accepted the Marsellus Wallace decree of lost "LA privileges", Butch could have disappeared with his golden parachute to start fresh somewhere else. That's entirely plausible. However, I'm not convinced that happened. Here's why:
The Breakup: Fabienne was incredibly annoying. While they enthusiastically played the part of an over the top teenage couple throughout the movie, I see Butch eventually tiring of her. And let's not forget that she had one real responsibility in the whole movie - keep track of the Coolidge family watch. She failed. Now factor in the astronomical divorce rate of professional athletes, particularly in retirement. Greg Bishop explored just that in this article, which looked at a number of factors including the following:
"When athletes retire, most face an identity crisis. Many do not retire on their own terms, and once they leave the game, they also leave behind the fame and fortune, the crowds and adoration. Their wives experience a similar loss of status. The dynamic players they married can become passive and withdrawn."
And Butch wouldn't even have to go through the hassle of a divorce.
The Finances: Butch received a substantial pay day for his successful double cross. Yet athletes have a long history of going broke. While he seemed to avoid the drug, alcohol, and procreating potholes, I envision him making some bad investments and burning through his nest egg. We also know that prior to that fateful night Butch's entire boxing career netted him a modest apartment and a white civic. He's no Hakeem Olajuwan (although I wonder how the Dream is doing since the market downturn).
The Personality: Butch was not someone who shied away from danger. First he enraged Marsellus Wallace, which by all accounts is an awful idea. Then he returned to his apartment for the family watch when everyone in the Wallace organization had to be looking for him. Upon retrieving the watch he disregarded his hunted status for a toaster pastry snack. Tangent alert - I'm not prepared to choose a winner in the Pop Tart versus Toaster Strudel debate. I'm just here to say, "Pop tarts win because you can eat them hot or cold" is not a valid argument. Cold pop tarts are no bueno. But back to Butch. He risked death at the hands of 2 gun toting, deranged rednecks to save Wallace. Granted Butch had a samurai sword and his decision ultimately removed the bounty from his head. Doesn't mean it was a safe bet. Are we really expected to believe he simply rode off into the sunset?
Retirement?: As previously discussed Butch appeared to be at the end of the line. But often times an athlete will struggle to retire. And it wasn't like he won his "final bout" in unconvincing fashion. Butch killed his opponent. Provided the whole legal, public homicide doesn't psychologically drive him away from the only career he's ever known, Butch could very easily get the itch to fight again. I'm betting he'd scratch it.
The Fall of Wallace?: And finally the most crucial point of all. Marsellus Wallace banned Butch from a) discussing the rape and b) returning to LA. However, that whole incident may have been the beginning of the end for Wallace. First there's the entire rape and dealing with the aftermath of it. Even if Butch kept his word and remained silent are we sure Wallace's cavalry would? What if one of his guys showed up in the shop, tortured Zed and then decided to take a shot at the crown? From Vincent and Jules' earlier massage conversation we know the organization is prone to gossip. Details of the account could spread like wildfire and cripple Wallace's authority. I picture a mad dash for power reminiscent of European monarchies warring in their heyday. In the resulting power vacuum Butch could return from laying low and pick up where he left off.
Conclusion: In the end the discovery of Vega's bullet ridden body in his apartment, coupled with Coolidge's AWOL status would be the biggest obstacle to his return. However, Vega was a heroin using, career criminal. Any half decent lawyer could help beat those charges. And the notoriety would only increase interest in Butch and the purse for his bouts. I see several more fights, a tell all book (Killer Inside and Out of the Ring?) some paternity suits (he's due) and eventually a remarkable downward spiral that ends with Butch working as a collector for a loan shark, just as Rocky Balboa did before his career took off.
KANSAS CITY +5 over San Diego: I don't really have the logic to explain myself here. My head is saying I should pick San Diego. But, I hate the Bolts, and they really are not good. They haven't impressed me once so far this year. This Chiefs team seems to be growing more confident each week, and they haven't won at home yet. They're due. The way the Chargers have looked, I think the best case scenario for them this week is a 3 point win.
Indianapolis -13.5 over ST. LOUIS: The three team tease is back and more reliable than ever. The Colts should be at the top of your teaser flow chart every week. You don't even need to look at the matchup. It's like the new Velveeta version of Easy Mac. You can't go wrong.
Chicago +1 over CINCINNATI: The Bengals looked very ordinary last week, and I really don't think they're as good as that 4-2 record. The injury to Antwan Odom makes this game a lock for the Bears, who have impressed me even in their losses. Also, doesn't it seem like it would be smart to always tease an underdog against the Bengals? They seem to always win on the last minute, ensuring a small margin of victory, or they lose. Either way, with the tease, you're probably in good shape.
Green Bay -8.5 over CLEVELAND: The Browns suck, and they seem to be getting worse. I'm really not sure what else you want from me.
Minnesota +5.5 over PITTSBURGH: The Steelers have won 9 in a row at home, and they'll have Troy Polamalu, a major game changer, back in action. But, I just don't like that pass-happy offense against this Vikings defensive front. This could be a long day for Big Ben. The Vikings big wins (San Fran, Green Bay, and Baltimore) have come at the Metrodome. This will be their first major road contest (they've been at Cleveland, Detroit, and St. Louis). This win in Pittsburgh will be a major statement.
New England -15 over Tampa Bay: Last year I lost when I wagered on the London game. I expected the Giants to steamroll the Dolphins, but the rainy field in London made it just a three point game. But, after last week, I certainly can't justify taking Tampa because of weather considerations. The Patriots are building momentum.
San Francisco +3 over HOUSTON: Frank Gore is back, Glen Coffee has some experience under his belt, Michael Crabtree is in the starting lineup, and I love the Niners from this point forward. Plus, they are coming off a bye, and they were embarrassed their last time out. I can only imagine that the image of Mike Singletary's grundle is permanently burned into Dre Bly's memory after that one.
OAKLAND +6 over NY Jets: 6 points? really? The Jets have lost three straight, and haven't looked good doing it. Their head coach seems completely shell-shocked after these losses, and they're bringing a rookie quarterback into the black hole to face a tough defense. On the other hand, the Raiders seemed to have bounced back extremely well from the ass whooping the Giants put on them a couple of weeks ago. They just beat a team that was playing in the NFC championship game last year, their coach was just cleared of assault charges, their new stud defensive lineman has guaranteed they will make the playoffs, and their recently deceased players are coming back to the field as pigeons. Yeah, I like Oakland here.
Buffalo +7 over CAROLINA: I don't care if Ryan Fitzpatrick is playing quarterback or not. There is no reason for Carolina to be giving 7 to anybody besides St. Louis.
New Orleans -6.5 over At Miami: Miami is a very popular pick this week. I guess I understand it from the standpoint that the wildcat might neutralize the Saints pressure and Miami will chew up minutes. But, I will direct your attention back to Monday night in week 2. Miami perfectly executed their game plan, holding the ball for over three full quarters. And yet, despite having less then 15 minutes of possession, Peyton Manning was able to score his points quickly enough to win the game. The Saints can do the same thing.
DALLAS -4 over Atlanta: I love Dallas coming off the bye here. Some of you out there might be wondering what it's going to take for me to believe in the Falcons. I don't have an answer. Every week I'm wrong about them, and I'm still not convinced.
NY GIANTS -7 over Arizona: I wouldn't want to be the Cardinals this week. The Giants were embarrassed last week. They are better than they showed, and I'm sure they are itching to get back out on the field. They were getting blown out in the first half, and they still had a chance to make it a one possession game had it not been for Roman Harper's forced fumble.
CC Brown had the Roy Williams syndrome last week. He was so eager to play the run that he got roasted in the passing game. Of course I'd rather have Kenny Phillips. But Brown started in this league for 4 years with Houston, and I expect him to bounce back and at least play competently from here on out.
Philadelphia -7 over WASHINGTON: NFC East divisional matchups are always closer than you'd think. Were it not for the Eagles losing to Oakland last week, I might like the Skins here. But, like the Giants, I'm sure the Eagles have had a bad taste in their mouth all week.
Your Teaser of the Week:
10 point teaser:
Indy -3.5 over St. Louis, Green Bay +1 over Cleveland, and New England -5 over Tampa Bay.
Look, I understand why the Cs are hesitant to overpay here. They have the right to match any offers after the season, and doing so is a great way to make sure they're not dishing out more than what the market commands (sucks to be restricted). But, there is something that really doesn't feel right about the way this whole thing has been handled. The negativity that came out over the summer did not sit well with me. This guy needs to be a Celtic for life, and even though I know they wouldn't let him go in the offseason, I'd feel great about getting it done now. 
The Finances: Butch received a substantial pay day for his successful double cross. Yet athletes have a long history of going broke. While he seemed to avoid the drug, alcohol, and procreating potholes, I envision him making some bad investments and burning through his nest egg. We also know that prior to that fateful night Butch's entire boxing career netted him a modest apartment and a white civic. He's no Hakeem Olajuwan (although I wonder how the Dream is doing since the market downturn).
